DeJuan Jones on USMNT debut: “Man, it’s way sweeter and way cooler than I could’ve ever imagined"
He received his first start against Colombia over the weekend.
It was a memorable week for the New England Revolution with three players getting some playing time with their respective national teams.
Djordje Petrovic returned to the Serbian National Team setup and played 45 minutes in his second-ever appearance. At the same time, Dylan Borrero and DeJuan Jones made their senior national team debuts for Colombia and the United States respectively.
Now reunited with his Revs teammates, Jones spoke about his time with the USMNT. The outside back said that it was a special moment for him.
“Man, it’s way sweeter and way cooler than I could’ve ever imagined,” Jones said. “Like you said, since I was young, probably five years old, I always dreamed of playing for the [United States Men’s] National Team. Just to put on that jersey and go out there to represent my country is an unreal feeling.”
Jones played just under 130 minutes in the two games that the United States played. In his start against Colombia, he played all 90 minutes, had 46 touches, completed 17 of his 24 passes and won 50 percent of his duels. Jones did all this on the opposite side of the field with the 25-year-old switching from his normal left back to playing right back for the USMNT.
The Revolution defender showed that he can play on the international level and showed off his versatility. Jones was pleased with his performance.
“I think I showed what I can do in both games, both offensively and defensively,” he said. “Now that I’ve seen that level up close and played a few games, I know what it takes to get there and I know what it takes to get back there. So, I know what I need to work on heading into preseason and the MLS season and I’m excited to continue working and continue to achieve more.”
The moment was made even better with Jones’ parents getting to see him play for the United States for the first time.
“Yeah, my parents were there and it was incredible,” the 25-year-old said. “They’ve been supporting me throughout my whole life whether it’s in sports, academics, any endeavor in my life, they’re always there. So, for them to be at both games was a big sacrifice for them and it was really cool for them to be there like they have been my whole life.”
Jones will be a key piece of the Revolution in 2023. He will help jumpstart the attack with his runs upfield and creating chances in the final third.
With 7 assists last season, Jones has caught the attention of teams in Europe. MLSsoccer.com’s Tom Bogert reported that VFB Stuttgart, Olympiakos F.C., and R.S.C. Anderlecht were interested in acquiring the outside back.
If Jones continues to play well, European teams will continue to inquire. Revolution fans should enjoy Jones and his play before New England is made an offer they can’t refuse.